Parent, you will not parry! Have I dared
Entreat that you forego the meal of dust
"—Man that is snake's meat—when I saw prepared
Your daily portion? Never! Just this once,
Go from his head, then,—let his life be spared!"
Whisper met whisper in the gruff response;
"Fool, I must have my prey: no inch I budge
From where thou see'st me thus myself ensconce."
"Ah," moaned the sufferer, "by thy look I judge
Wealth fails to tempt thee: what if honors prove